When the blackjack flowers start to bloom, they attract a lot of fall butterflies including some that are migrating through the area on their way further south. One of these migratory species is the bean leaf roller butterfly (Urbanus proteus). It’s a member of the skipper family and it’s pretty small, especially when compared to some of the huge swallowtail butterflies we see this time of the year. Most of the time when it feeds, it keeps its wings folded, and it seems to be rather drab. But when it opens those wings and reveals its beautifully colored back, you realize why it’s one of my favorites.

I just can’t take my eyes off of that amazing greenish blue color that almost glows when the sun hits it. I love that color when and where ever I encounter it, so now you know why these guys are my fall favorites.